by Mary Grow

At their Oct. 16 meeting, China’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Committee members heard a progress report on the planned new causeway bridge at the head of China Lake.

Committee member Tom Michaud, point man on the project, said relations are good with representatives of Wright-Pierce, the Topsham engineering firm working on project design and permit applications, and Mark McCluskey, the engineer with A. E. Hodsdon, in Waterville, who represents the town as an overseer and contact person.

Michaud said a subcontractor completed hydraulic borings so recently that results are not yet available. The next step is a wetlands survey.

The project needs local and state permits, and Michaud made reference to possible Army Corps of Engineers involvement. Committee members and Town Manager Daniel L’Heureux believe the new bridge is compatible with town ordinances.

On another issue, committee members discussed setting up an organized application process for TIF funds, with an annual schedule to give themselves an opportunity to weigh and prioritize requests.

The next TIF Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, Nov. 20.